The Future for Leaders is Trust

Amid economic turbulence and global uncertainty, people are increasingly turning to their employers and business leaders as a source of truth, rather than their institutions and government officials.

Trust as one of the most vital forms of capital a leader can have today can be defined as a belief in the abilities, integrity, and character of another person, and is often thought of as something that personal relationships are built on.

Never before has trust been so important in moving our world forward and creating the conditions for meaningful and sustainable change.

Leadership used to be about leaders: the powerful people who had reached the top of their organizations. The old leadership also implied scouring the organization for “high-potential” leaders of the future and a cult of personality, this made good sense in a vertical, siloed, competitive business world.

Then things changed. The business world went from vertical to horizontal and virtual. The boundaries separating leaders from their employees, their suppliers, and even their competitors have become porous. This made vertical power-based leadership becomes less relevant.

Leaders can no longer trust in power; instead, they rely on the power of trust.

Although it takes effort and practice, everyone can develop the practical leadership skills, habits, and mindset needed to earn, strengthen, extend, and even restore trust.

Trust is the foundation of most successful organizations.